Ben Jonson

Definition

Ben Jonson was a prominent English playwright and poet of the late 16th and early 17th centuries, known for his sharp wit and satirical style. He played a significant role in shaping English drama during the Renaissance period and was a contemporary of William Shakespeare, often engaging in literary rivalries that highlighted his own contributions to theater and poetry.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ben Jonson was born in 1572 and became one of the first poets laureate of England, which established his status in the literary community.
2. His most famous works include 'Volpone,' 'The Alchemist,' and 'Epicoene,' which are notable for their social commentary and exploration of human behavior.
3. Jonson's plays often reflect the themes of moral rectitude, class distinctions, and the follies of society, showcasing his keen observation of human nature.
4. He was known for his use of classical influences in his writing, drawing inspiration from ancient Roman playwrights like Plautus and Terence.
5. Jonson's rivalry with Shakespeare is well-documented, with both playwrights influencing each other's work while representing different styles within the same literary period.

Review Questions

• How did Ben Jonson's style differ from that of Shakespeare, particularly in terms of themes and character development?
  • Ben Jonson's style often emphasized satire and social commentary, focusing on moral lessons and the follies of humanity, while Shakespeare tended to explore broader themes of love, ambition, and the complexity of human emotions. Jonson's characters were frequently driven by a single dominant trait or 'humour,' which allowed for a more defined but less nuanced portrayal compared to Shakespeare's richly layered characters. This contrast highlights how both playwrights contributed to English drama by reflecting different aspects of society and human nature.
• Discuss the significance of the Comedy of Humours in Ben Jonson's works and its impact on later dramatic forms.
  • The Comedy of Humours was significant in Jonson's works as it provided a framework for developing characters who embodied specific traits or vices, allowing him to critique societal norms through humor. This approach influenced later dramatic forms by emphasizing character-driven plots and shaping the comedic tradition in English theater. By focusing on how these dominant traits affected characters' interactions with society, Jonson paved the way for future playwrights to explore psychological complexities within comedic contexts.
• Evaluate Ben Jonson's influence on the evolution of English drama during the Renaissance period and its legacy in modern theater.
  • Ben Jonson's influence on English drama during the Renaissance period was profound, as he elevated the standards of playwriting through his innovative use of satire and structured comedic forms. His emphasis on moral themes and social critique set a precedent for playwrights who followed, promoting a blend of entertainment with intellectual engagement. In modern theater, Jonson's legacy can be seen in contemporary comedic styles that prioritize character-driven narratives and social commentary, reflecting his enduring impact on theatrical storytelling.

Related terms

Caroline Drama: A style of drama that emerged during the reign of King Charles I, characterized by heightened emotional expression and complex character development, influenced by Jonson's works.

Comedy of Humours: A genre of comedy that Jonson popularized, focusing on the interplay between character traits and societal roles, where each character is driven by a dominant personality trait or 'humour.'

Masque: A form of festive courtly entertainment that combined poetry, music, and dance, which Jonson wrote extensively for, showcasing his talents as a playwright and poet.